The Supreme Court on May 18 ordered the release of AG Perarivalan, the convict serving life imprisonment in connection with the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, while invoking its extraordinary power under Article 142 of the Constitution. Perarivalan had sought a premature release from jail based on the recommendation made by the Tamil Nadu government in September 2018. In an interaction with The Daily Guardian Review, Perarivalan shared his journey after his release.
Q: How was the 30 years legal battle?
A: The journey was painful.
Q: How did you feel getting out from four corners after 31 years?
A: I never thought I would get stuck in the case, the journey was very long in jail. My mother had supported me all times. That’s how I overcame.
Q: Did you ever feel that you’ll gain a victory in this case?
A: I never lost hope, I have seen this as a setback, I have worked hard for it.
Q: In the past 30 years, who have helped you and supported you?
A: My mother has always taken my side. A huge team both legally and politically have fought for me in this case.
Q: How do you see the world now? What’s your future plan?
A: The world has completely changed. I’m getting adopted for it and learning it, the future plans haven’t been discussed yet. I will be consulting with the family on the future plans.
Q: Why do you think your release was celebrated across TN and by several political parties in the state?
A: Several parties including AIADMK and DMK have understood my innocence in this case and they have supported me always understanding my situation.